In March 28, 1521 the Magellan Expedition met with two rulers, Rajah Colambu and Rahah Siaui, of the Rajahnate of Butuan and "Calagan" (Caraga), which Pigafetta misidentified as islands.

Afterwards, Father Pedro de Valderrama performed the first mass in the Philippines on Easter Sunday (March 31, 1521).

Magellan also climbed the highest elevation in Limasawa and erected a cross before leaving for "Zubu" (Cebu).

[6] Limasawa completely became a municipality on August 27, 1989, after then President Corazon Aquino ordered the plebiscite which its residents voted in favor of the creation.

It is about 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) long from north to south and is the smallest municipality in the province, in both area and population.